Insight for Change

Some of the Frequently Asked Questions about Therapy:

Why call a therapist? When people have symptoms of depression, anxiety or relationship stress, therapy can help. A professional who is trained to evaluate and offer resources outside of the client’s ordinary life can facilitate understanding and relief.

What happens in the first session? In a confidential setting the client talks about their problem. The therapist listens, asks questions, and considers resources and interventions that might be helpful. The therapist shares observations and suggests possible solutions or a treatment plan. When a different resource -- such as medical -- or another therapy approach -- is going to meet the clients needs better, the therapist will offer referrals. If the client and the therapist agree on a treatment plan, they continue to work together.

How long does it take? Sometimes all that is needed is a new perspective or information. When this is the case the work is brief. At other times the client wants to change long-standing patterns and master difficult issues through the therapy relationship. This work is subtle, and takes longer. Outmoded defenses need to be seen through and replaced by healthier choices. Old habits can be hard to change, even when a persons sincerely desires this change.

What tools do therapists bring to help their clients change? It depends on what the client needs and what the therapist’s area to expertise is. There is often more than one effective way to solve problems. The eclectic therapist uses a variety of treatment modalities, including; supportive talk, cognitive—here and now problem solving --, information sharing, family work, dream work, hypnosis, role play, journaling, poetry, insight into personality dynamics, work with belief systems, and many other approaches. When appropriate the therapist may suggest adjunct services -- such as; a medical evaluation, alternative treatments, group therapy or other community resources.

How do you know if you are with the best therapist for you? Finding out the therapist’s areas of expertise, experience, and education is important and easy, just ask. Therapy helps in the context of relationship and it is important that you feel you are with someone competent and trustworthy for you. This part of the decision is usually intuitive and highly personal.

Is it necessary to talk about the past? We start with the present. Sometimes all that is needed is a new perspective or unrecognised resource. However, people have usually mined their current understanding and resources long before they call a therapist. It is often helpful to examine how the past has been understood and to recognize and change unfortunate patterns that are being repeated in the present. Difficult emotions, including grief and anger may be dealt with in therapy. This is for the purpose of emancipation – becoming your best self – not to blame or judge anyone’s intentions. Ultimately a deeper understanding usually leads to forgiveness as well as personal change.

How much does it cost? We charge $100 for a 55-minute session in Fort Collins, and expect payment at the time of service unless other arrangements are agreed to in advance.

Does my insurance help pay? Some insurance will pay for all or part of therapy. Some companies want to select a therapist they have a contract with for you. We are on very few insurance companies preferred provider lists for ethical and business reasons. We will give you a receipt with a diagnosis, and all information your insurance company should require. We can also provide billing. When we do agree to be a direct provider for your insurance company sessions are 45 to 50 minutes long. This allows us time for increased paperwork and costs.

Do you offer complimentary sessions? We are happy to take time in the initial phone interview to answer any questions we can at that time. We charge for all office visits.

Carolyn Bartlett, LCSW
(970) 484-7868
Office: 205 S. Meldrum St.
            Ft Collins, CO 80521
Office hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9-7

John Reynolds, LCSW
(970) 484-7868 (Ft. Collins) or (307) 637-0673 (Cheyenne
Cheyenne office: 2622 Pioneer Ave.
                            Cheyenne, WY 82001
Cheyenne office hours: Tuesday and Wednesday 9am to 7pm.

Ft Collins office: 205 S. Meldrum St.
   Fort Collins, CO 80521
Ft. Collins office hours: Monday and Thursday 9am to 7pm

Mail: P.O. Box 343, Ft Collins, CO